Toll rises to 30 in Karachi fire

Karachi, Jan 23: A devastating fire at Karachi’s Gul Shopping Plaza has claimed 30 lives so far, with 73 people still missing, including 16 minor boys, officials said on Wednesday. The blaze began in the building’s basement on the night of January 17 and spread rapidly, taking nearly 36 hours to control. Sindh police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed confirmed two additional bodies were recovered, bringing the toll to 30, though only 10 victims have been identified due to severe burns. The provincial government released a list of missing persons aged 10 to 69, comprising men, women, and children. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab said the list was compiled with help from families and shop owners. Rescue operations may continue for up to two more weeks. Authorities revealed the building had pending safety-related court cases. The Sindh governor pledged compensation and rehabilitation for affected shopkeepers.